A Spa-Filled Summer
Treat yourself well with these two special spa promotions.
June 08, 2011

The Spa at Viceroy Miami
Where: The Spa at Viceroy Miami
The scoop: Purchase any two treatments from The Spa at Viceroy Miami’s menu through June (Monday through Friday), and receive 50 percent off services including massages, signature journeys, rituals and body treatments. (Excludes signature treatments, nails, waxing and facial additions.)
We suggest: Make reservations early. Take someone special along and purchase two massages.
To book an appointment, call 305-503-0369
Where: Thirty-five of the best spas in Miami—including Canyon Ranch, Spa at Setai, Spa at Mandarin Oriental, mySpa at InterContinental Miami and Acqualina Spa.
The scoop: All are participants in Miami Spa Month, which actually runs July 1 through August 31.
We suggest: Planning ahead. Look for spas with beach or pool access and turn a spa day into a mini staycation.
For a full list of participating spas, click here.
New Brunches to Love
Two local eateries offer variations on that favorite weekend meal.
June 08, 2011

A brunch dish at Vida
Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or you prefer comforting classics, we found two new brunches that will satiate cravings of any variety. Vida in the Fontainebleau now offers a Sunday brunch buffet (10 AM–3 PM), which includes carving stations, sumptuous breakfast selections and desserts. We suggest the lobster thermidor, the ceviche bar, the orange butter glazed salmon and a stop at the charcuterie station. And Zuma at the Epic began a Sunday brunch service (NOON–2:30 PM) recently, offering sushi, sashimi, maki and cold and hot dishes from the robata grill. Try the Japanese sangria and salt-grilled sea bass—and save room for dessert.
Retro Game Night at Lords
Ditch your digital game obsessions and get down with some Connect Four and Twister at Cha Cha Rooster.
June 07, 2011

Cha Cha Rooster at Lords South Beach
Whether it’s Angry Birds, Portal or Words With Friends it’s evident we like our games. For a retro twist on the trend, Cha Cha Rooster at Lords South Beach is hosting a Wednesday night Game Lords event (8 PM), wherein gamers kick it offline and old school with ping-pong, Connect Four, Twister, Jenga, poker and more. To rouse competitive spirits, prizes will include complimentary cocktails, art books, Toms Shoes and the grand prize of a one-night stay at Lords. Players can also win at the bar with drink specials like $2 shots, $4 beers and $8 cocktails. Guests are welcome to bring their iPods to help create the musical score. 1120 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
Summer Sandal Spotlight
This pair of sandals will get you off on the right foot.
June 06, 2011

One stylish secret to making a successfully seamless transition from day to night is to include an understated, effortless touch of glamour. A simple way to get this accomplished this time of year is to seek out a metallic sandal. One of our latest favorites can be found at the W South Beach store: The Anthology ($90) by Seychelles is a pretty gladiator-inspired T-strap versatile enough to be worn with both jeans and flirty summer dresses. The mini square golden studs are a nice touch, too. W South Beach, 2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-938-3000
Bryan Cooks
Bryan in the Kitchen, Downtown’s new café, is low on preservatives and high on flavor.
June 06, 2011

We’re crushing on Bryan: New health-conscious eatery Bryan in the Kitchen, that is. The specialty food store with a “gourmet touch” promises preservative-free fare and baked goods made with the finest wholesome ingredients. The homemade Greek yogurt with honey and granola is nothing short of perfect pre-yoga fuel. For lunch choose from a medley of fresh orzo, quinoa and tabouli salads. Bryan also offers a variety of savory gourmet snacks from its namesake line of nutritional products, including roasted red bell pepper hummus and organic olives. Cupcake fans will also love off-the-wall flavors like strawberry basil, avocado and lavender topped with French buttercream frosting. In case you dream up a flavor that’s not on the menu, come in and the café will create a special order just for you. No wonder we’re smitten. Bryan in the Kitchen, 104 NE Second Ave., Miami, 305-371-7777
Bombshell Beauty
Victoria’s Secret Angel Alessandra Ambrosio visits Miami.
June 03, 2011

Alessandra Ambrosio
Victoria’s Secret released its Summer Bombshell campaign with the help of the Angels. Alessandra Ambrosio helped with the launch in Miami, and we asked a few questions.
Who is your favorite bombshell?
ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO: I loved the past Victoria’s Secret models like Eva [Herzigova] and Heidi [Klum]. But I think every woman can be a bombshell if she has the confidence and the right tools.
What are you favorite places in Miami?
AA: I love the beach around Fifth Street. I like going paddle boarding on the ocean. There are so many good hotels with great shops and, of course, Joe’s.
Where do you like to vacation in the summer?
AA: St. Tropez, Ibiza, Bali—so many places. I really want to go to the Seychelles.
What are your personal summer beauty tips?
AA: You should wear a new fragrance every season to keep it fresh and fun. And SPF is a must.
I’m sure you’ve learned a few things beauty-wise during your career.
AA: I learned how to put on fake lashes. I use the individual ones, the singles ones don’t bother you. I took me seven to eight years to learn. But I love them and I can do it myself.
What color for summer do you love?
AA: I think brights and whites are great. I love white nail polish. I used to wear it when I was a kid… and recently I was doing photo shoots and they had white and I loved it so now I’ve been wearing it again.
What’s on your summer playlist?
AA: Broken Bells, Adele and of course Brazilian Bossa Nova. I just saw Preta Gil in concert and I loved her. She’s Gilberto Gil’s daughter and she has so much energy
Do you work out during the summer?
AA: Yoga once a week at least in order to stretch, and then I love being outdoors so it depends on the location: swimming, paddle boarding, hiking. Whatever the place offers.
And do you ever break your diet?
AA: It depends on what’s in front of me, but I do love ice cream sundaes with chocolate sauce, nuts and cream.
A Milkshake Moment
Make A Shake opens on Alton Road.
June 03, 2011

Kelis’ “Milkshake” might have brought the boys to the yard, but Make A Shake is hoping its milkshakes will bring everyone to Alton. The British import employs a make-your-own idea, offering add-ins like chocolate, cereals, fruits and a variety of candy, cookies and cakes. Expect the usual suspects (M&Ms, Whoppers), and then go crazy with Sour Patch Kids, Honey Buns, MoonPies, Twinkies, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and more. Make A Shake, 1650 Alton Road, Miami Beach
Shoe Trend: Espadrilles
Pare Gabia espadrilles are a traditional joy.
June 02, 2011

Espadrilles are worn and made all over the globe, but their origins in the Pyrenees have given them French and Spanish citizenship (along with an undeniable connection to the Basque and Catalan cultures). Now thanks to The Webster, you can sport a pair of handmade, old-world beauties directly from the French label Pare Gabia, which means “matchless” in the Basque language. These shoes certainly live up to their name. 1220 Collins Ave.
New Restaurant: Il Corso Trattoria
Tasty new Italian comes to Coral Gables.
May 27, 2011

Ravioli di aragosta con vodka
Coral Gables has a new Italian bistro. Il Corso Trattoria hosts its grand opening next month, but you can visit the restaurant now for a taste of its hearty menu. In addition to feasting on fresh, homemade pastas—like ravioli di aragosta con vodka (lobster ravioli, tomato cream sauce, pesto bread crumbs, lobster tail)—diners can enjoy a variety of meat, chicken or seafood entrees such as mahimahi, caramelized polenta balls with zucchini ribbons in a tomato-basil sauce, grilled filet mignon topped with Chianti butter and roasted crimini mushrooms, and brick-oven roasted chicken with roasted potatoes and caramelized sweet onions. Patrons can also opt for a brick oven pizza topped with baby arugula and virgin olive oil. “We’re focusing on simplicity, authenticity and flavors,” says chef LeRoy Bautista. “With fresh ingredients and timeless techniques paired with the restaurant’s warm décor, we’ve created a welcoming setting that truly enhances the genuine Italian experience.” Ocean Drive readers are invited to attend the ribbon cutting with Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason on Thursday, June 16 (6 PM), followed by the grand opening party (6:30-10 PM). There will be live music along with complimentary wine and beer and passed appetizers. (RSVP to ilcorso@cm-publicrelations.com) Il Corso, 166 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305-603-7137
Short Stories
What's the perfect summer staple? Shorts.
May 26, 2011
1. The J Brand Leon short has a frayed, unfinished hem, a three-inch inseam and cool distressing through out that gives them an edgy worn-in look.
2. Parker is a collection of unique, fashionable tops designed for the woman who wants to go straight from the office to a night out while remaining on the cutting edge of fashion. These purple wave shorts are made of a soft silk material.
3. This classic green cargo short by Genetic Denim exemplifies the brand's well-crafted, innovative demin styles.
4. These cut-off white shorts by J Brand have distressed detailing throughout and are both sophisticated and sexy.
All shorts available at Koko & Palenki


















